So far, Bermuda Press has digital pre-press capabilitis says Mr. Wharton, but at the moment pages for print have to be photographed before being printed. If the company gets the new system, it will mean that something designed on a computer can be plugged straight into the printing machines.

"It will give our customers a much faster turn-around time,'' said Mr.

Wharton. "Which is what everyone wants.'' But he said the new technology would not at first mean cheaper rates, as the initial cost of the machinery was high, and would take time to filter down to the customer.

"Ultimately it will mean faster, cheaper and better service,'' he said.

The new to plate system promises sharper images as it does not have to be processed and photographed.

"Lead times will be cut dramatically by this and it will eventually cut costs. But there is a significant capital investment in the technology,'' he added.

"New technology does not mean a change in price right away, but it will eventually change.'' Mr. Wharton said that he believes that the new printing system, installed last week which doubles output, puts the company at the cutting edge of printing technology on the Island.

He said: "The objective is to reduce the cost of printing for both the local and international companies. We are also reasonably confident that we can reach the expectations of clients in terms of quality and on-time delivery.

"What it means to us is that we are the most advanced and the most well-equipped printer on the Island.'' He added that the new speed, capacity and costs would lure people back to printing in Bermuda.

ends Within a year Bermuda could have a computerised printing tool that will improve the quality of glossy printed matter, according to Paget Wharton, General Manager of Bermuda Press Ltd.

Last week the company, which is owned by Bermuda Press (Holdings) Ltd, owners of The Royal Gazette , unveiled its new state-of-the-art printing press in its Pembroke offices.

But Mr. Wharton said that if all goes well in the printing industry, his company will be going directly from computer to plate.

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